This vegetable soup, passed down from Elizabeth’s grandmother, is a wonderful and nutritious meal that is perfect for those looking to lose weight while enjoying a delicious dish. Packed with fresh vegetables and topped with homemade Parmesan croutons, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. Here’s everything you need to know about this delightful recipe:
Ingredients Overview:
For the Soup:
- Onion: Adds a savory base flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding healthy fats.
- Celery, Carrot, Sweet Red and Orange Peppers, Courgette (Zucchini), Potatoes: These vegetables add a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients.
- Chili Pepper and Garlic: Provide a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
- Salt, Black Pepper, Thyme: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: Forms the base of the soup, adding depth and richness.
- Frozen Peas: Add a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
For the Parmesan Croutons:
- Bread: Cubed to create the base of the croutons.
- Olive Oil: Ensures the bread cubes become crispy and flavorful.
- Salt, Dried Garlic, Parmesan Cheese, Thyme: Seasonings that add a delicious, savory crunch to the croutons.
Directions in Detail:
1. Prepare the Soup:
Fry the Onion: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until it becomes translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, carrot, sweet red pepper, sweet orange pepper, courgette, and potatoes. Stir the vegetables well to combine.
Add the Seasonings: Add the finely chopped chili pepper and garlic to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are well coated with the seasonings.
Simmer the Vegetables: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their flavors.
Add the Broth: Pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
Add the Peas and Parsley: Add 1 cup of frozen peas to the soup and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
2. Prepare the Parmesan Croutons:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Season the Bread: Place the cubed bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Toss to coat the bread cubes evenly.
Bake the Croutons: Cook the seasoned bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. These croutons add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to the soup.
3. Serve:
Finish the Soup: Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This step ensures that the flavors are balanced and to your liking.
Serve with Croutons: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the freshly baked Parmesan croutons. The combination of the hearty vegetable soup and the crispy, savory croutons is simply irresistible.
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. The right balance of salt, pepper, and herbs is key to a delicious soup.
- Crouton Storage: Store any leftover croutons in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Low in Calories: This vegetable soup is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, making it perfect for weight loss.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this soup provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
- Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil adds healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
Serving Suggestions:
- Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy this soup as a light lunch or dinner. It’s filling enough to be a main course but also pairs well with a side salad.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It reheats well and makes for a quick and easy meal.
Conclusion:
This vegetable soup is a wonderful recipe that combines tradition with health benefits. It’s easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and delicious enough to enjoy every day. The addition of homemade Parmesan croutons adds a perfect crunch and flavor that will make this soup a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comfort and health benefits of this delightful vegetable soup!